Mercedes-Benz proves efficiency of new E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID

The Mercedes-Benz E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID has undertaken a road trip with a difference to confirm its impressive fuel economy credentials.

Billed as the most fuel efficient E-Class ever, the new E-Class travelled 830-miles between Newquay, Cornwall and Wick in the Scottish Highlands on a single tank of fuel. Boasting some impressive figures, the German brand’s new hybrid emits just 109g/km of CO2 returning 67mpg on the combined cycle yet can reach speeds of 150mph and takes just 7.5 seconds to accelerate from 0-62mph.

Mercedes-Benz SLK

Ex-rally driver Mick Linford was trusted with the task of driving the car nearly the length of the UK. The quest started in Cornwall where Mick was handed the keys to the car at Newquay Cornwall Airport, where he set out on the eco-challenge by hitting 136mph on the runway before setting off for Wick Airport – the most northerly airport on the UK mainland.

Taking in diversions, adverse weather conditions and heavy traffic over the two days, the car completed the 830-mile journey averaging an impressive 67.3mpg. Upon arrival at Wick Airport the E-Class was again put through its paces – this time hitting 120mph on the much shorter runway.

The entire trip was carried out on a single tank of fuel – of which a quarter remained on its arrival in Wick. Had the car carried on driving it would have achieved a theoretical range in excess of 1,100-miles.

What makes the E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID different from any other E-Class is the combination of efficient four-cylinder diesel engine and an electric motor mounted within the 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission. The gearbox substitutes a torque converter for a wet clutch system, therefore allowing for the internal combustion engine to be disengaged entirely via the clutch and for electric-only drive to be maintained for short periods, boosting economy. The system is intricately packaged within the vehicle so as not to impact on the load capacity of the E-Class in any way.

The Mercedes-Benz E 300 BlueTEC HYBRID is available to order now in both saloon and estate form.

About the Author - Richard Lawton

Richard has been writing about cars since 2008. His favourite motoring topics include the latest fuel-saving technology but also high performance cars - he's conflicted like that. When he doesn't have his writing (or marketing) hat on, he can be found traipsing around the British countryside. Or drinking a skinny latt&eacute;.